The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Eyitayo Foluso Oyinlola, has called for urgent modernization of military operations through the adoption of cutting-edge technology and advanced strategic techniques to effectively address Nigeria’s escalating insecurity challenges.
Major General Oyinlola made the remarks during the opening session of the Module III for the 3 Division Operations Planning Cadre 2025, held at the 33 Artillery Brigade, Shadawanka Barracks, Bauchi. The event brought together junior commanders undergoing training to sharpen their operational planning skills in tackling contemporary security threats.
Addressing the participants, Major General Oyinlola stressed that “the operational planning cadre junior commander’s training at the tactical operational level is designed to refresh and deepen the commanders’ understanding of their roles while exposing them to the latest innovations and policies governing the Nigerian Army and its broader forces.”
He explained that the current security landscape demands more than conventional warfare tactics. “We must incorporate technological components such as drones, advanced surveillance systems, cybersecurity measures, and real-time data analytics into our operational frameworks,” Oyinlola said. “Innovation is the key to gaining an upper hand over the diverse and evolving security threats facing Nigeria.”
The GOC also highlighted the necessity of partnership among all stakeholders—including government authorities, military leadership, and the general public—to create a comprehensive security environment. “Ending insecurity is not the duty of the military alone. Government agencies, community leaders, and citizens must actively collaborate to support security efforts and sustain peace,” he noted.
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, who was present at the event, lauded the Nigerian Army for selecting Bauchi as the host city for this important training. He assured that his administration would continue to provide unwavering support to security agencies in the state.
Governor Mohammed remarked, “Bauchi remains committed to creating an enabling environment for the military and other security outfits to perform their duties effectively. Together, we will strive to ensure the safety and security of all residents.”
Nigeria has faced a surge in various security threats over recent years, ranging from banditry, insurgency by groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, kidnapping, and communal clashes. These multifaceted threats have stretched the capabilities of security forces and exposed gaps in equipment, intelligence gathering, and rapid response.
Military experts have long advocated for increased investment in technology to bolster the army’s operational efficiency. Technologies such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), satellite imagery, night vision equipment, and improved communication networks can significantly enhance situational awareness and troop coordination.
Major General Oyinlola’s call for innovative technology adoption aligns with Nigeria’s broader security reform agenda, which seeks to integrate modern tools with traditional military strength. Analysts suggest that embracing technology is crucial to overcoming challenges such as poor infrastructure, difficult terrain, and the increasing sophistication of criminal elements.
Furthermore, continuous training programs like the 3 Division Operations Planning Cadre are vital for equipping junior commanders with contemporary tactics, leadership skills, and a mindset geared toward innovation.
The Nigerian Army’s emphasis on technological modernization and collaborative security frameworks signals a promising shift toward a more effective and responsive force. With active government support, community engagement, and the integration of innovative tools, Nigeria’s fight against insecurity may see improved outcomes in the near future.